How to choose your first lens for your mirrorless camera
If you're new to photography, you might be wondering what kind of lens you should buy for your camera. There are so many options out there and they can vary a lot in price and quality. How do you know which one is right for you?
In this blog post, I'll give you a lens guide for beginner photographers. I'll explain the different types of lenses, what they do, and how to choose the best one for your needs. I'll also tell what was my first lens for my Sony A7iii. Let's get started!
Compatibility with your camera’s sensor
The size of the sensor behind a lens does not affect the lens itself, but it affects how the lens (especially its focal length and aperture) influences the final image.
Among interchangeable lens cameras today there are three commonly-used sensor sizes: Four Thirds, APS-C and full-frame. When you use a full-frame camera, the focal length listed on your lens functions normally and will be accurate in the photographs you take. However, crop-sensor cameras have a magnification factor between 1.5x and 1.6x depending on the brand you use.
So, if you use a 100mm focal length lens on a full-frame camera, your images will truly reflect 100mm. If you use a 100mm focal length on a crop-sensor camera, your lens functions more like a 150mm focal length lens.
Types of lenses
There are two main types of lenses: zoom and prime. Zoom lenses let you change the focal length, which is the distance between the lens and the sensor. This means you can zoom in or out to get closer or farther from your subject. Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, which means you can't zoom in or out. You have to move yourself or your camera to change the distance from your subject. I made this article explores the differences and advantages of prime and zoom lenses.
“The camera sees more than the eye, so why not make use of it?”
How to choose a lens
The best lens for you depends on what kind of photography you want to do. Different types of photography require different focal lengths and apertures. Here are some common examples:
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You want a lens that can create a shallow depth of field, which means the subject is in focus and the background is blurred. This makes the subject stand out and creates a pleasing effect. You also want a lens that can capture the natural proportions of the face and avoid distortion. A good focal length for portrait photography is between 50mm and 85mm. A good aperture for portrait photography is between f/1.4 and f/2.8.
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You want a lens that can capture a wide angle of view, which means you can fit more of the scene into your frame. You also want a lens that can create a deep depth of field, which means everything from the foreground to the background is in focus. This gives a sense of scale and detail to your image. A good focal length for landscape photography is between 10mm and 35mm. A good aperture for landscape photography is between f/8 and f/16.
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You want a lens that can reach a long distance, which means you can get close to your subject without disturbing it or endangering yourself. You also want a lens that can create a fast shutter speed, which means you can freeze the motion of your subject and avoid blur. A good focal length for wildlife photography is between 200mm and 600mm. A good aperture for wildlife photography is between f/2.8 and f/5.6.
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You want a lens that can focus very close, which means you can capture the tiny details of your subject. You also want a lens that can create a large magnification ratio, which means you can make your subject appear bigger than it is in real life. A good focal length for macro photography is between 60mm and 105mm. A good aperture for macro photography is between f/2.8 and f/16.
Of course, the suggestions above from each category are not rules to follow. Be creative and capture the best images possible in your circumstances.
The lens of my choice?
Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art
The first lens I chosed to pair with my Sony A7iii was the 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN | Art from Sigma.
Budget lens?
Of course, lenses from the same manufacturer (Sony, Canon, Nikon) as your camera body will perform best, but for some brands there are alternatives. Like those from Sigma, Tamron or even Samyang. All of them have almost an equivalent lens of an already established brand, so if the budget does not allow you, you can confidently call on one of these third parties. I’m sure any of these will be a great starter lens for your photography!
Conclusion
I hope this budget lens guide for beginner photographers has helped you understand the different types of lenses and how to choose the best one for your needs. Remember, the best lens is the one that suits your style, your budget, and your camera. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your photography!
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.
